Younger generations of Nigerians in the diaspora have reiterated their commitment to preserving cultural identity, reconnecting with their roots, and contributing to national development. This was the central message at the Homestrings panel session held during the 2025 National Diaspora Day (NDD) celebration in Abuja.
Moderated by Ms. Aisha Dankano, the session focused on the experiences of second and third-generation diaspora Nigerians, exploring themes of identity, cultural belonging, and cross-continental collaboration. It featured a diverse lineup of young speakers who shared personal stories and perspectives on maintaining their Nigerian heritage.
A major highlight of the session was a presentation by Pelumi Nubi, a renowned travel content creator and world record breaker, who recently completed a solo drive from London to Lagos, traversing 17 countries 14 of them in Africa.
“Every mile I drove was a reminder that no matter how far we go, Nigeria is always within reach through our passion, our resilience, and our roots,” Nubi said. “And as we know, Naija no dey carry last.”
She described courage as a defining Nigerian trait and encouraged young people, particularly women, to pursue their goals with confidence. Nubi also announced her forthcoming project, The Women Empower Initiative, aimed at inspiring and equipping women to break barriers and embrace bold dreams.
Other panelists, including Nduka Eze, Ayomide Sanwo-Olu, and Suraya Ahmed, emphasized the need for structured platforms that enable young Nigerians in the diaspora to engage with the country through business, education, and culture.
The segment opened with a symbolic performance by Kleopatra Vargas, a vibrant cultural advocate with Nigerian-Caribbean roots, who thrilled the audience with a traditional dance, setting the tone for a conversation filled with pride and celebration.
The Homestrings initiative, spearheaded by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), seeks to foster deeper understanding of the roles, experiences, and responsibilities of second and third-generation diaspora Nigerians in shaping the future of the nation.
